The start of a new school year has brought big changes to the Lourdes swim team. With many seniors graduating last spring, the roster is now filled with new faces eager to make their mark. Long practices have been an adjustment for freshmen, but their energy is already being felt in the pool.
“The hardest part is definitely the length of the practice. But it’s also exciting to swim with a team that cheers for you and pushes you,” said freshman Elisa Alireza.
Returning swimmers are also seeing growth from past seasons. “My freshman year, I was a lot worse on the team, but this year I’ve gotten better and improved so much. My number one lesson is to go to practices with your friends because they motivate you to do better,” said sophomore Natalia Balerdi.
The season opener was cut short by weather, but it gave swimmers a chance to showcase their speed in early events, including a senior relay. Senior captain Bella Pedraja said stepping into her leadership role has been both challenging and rewarding. “It’s scary because you’re the girl all the freshmen look up to and trust, but at the same time it’s so fun and sad and stressful since it’s my last year swimming not only in high school but in club swimming as well,” Pedraja said.
She has been preparing for this role since the end of last season, organizing tryouts, merchandise, and even introducing new pink swim caps for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Looking ahead, Pedraja said she is most excited to “soak in all the lasts with the best group of girls and leave my all on the deck every meet.”
The team is led by head coach Brandon Murphy and assistant coach Corina Wong, a former captain and alumna of the Class of 2024. Together, they bring support and guidance both at practice and on deck. This year’s theme, breaking barriers, goes beyond race times. It reflects personal growth and team unity.
Team spirit continues to shine through Lourdes traditions like their Bobcats chant and Coach Murphy’s signature “yee yee” before meets. Senior team members check in with new swimmers before races and remind them that nerves are normal. With upcoming meets scheduled for September 8 against Coral Gables and September 11 against Miami Beach, the Lourdes swim team is ready to dive into the season with confidence and heart.
